The Carolinas LGBT+ Chamber of Commerce Internship Program creates real-world professional experience for students while expanding the Chamber's ability to serve businesses and professionals across the Carolinas. Through partnerships with UNC Charlotte, Johnson C. Smith University, and other regional universities, interns contribute meaningfully to our work while gaining exposure to professional environments, business networks, and regional economic initiatives, and helping build talent pipelines for our Corporate Partners.

What interns do

Interns are integrated into the day-to-day work of the Chamber and support a range of initiatives:

• Event planning and execution
• Communications and content
• Member engagement and outreach
• Regional programming
• Administrative and operational projects

This hands-on approach ensures interns build transferable skills while contributing to work that directly supports the Chamber's mission.

Regional impact

The program also extends the Chamber's reach beyond Charlotte.

These regional interns provide on-the-ground support for local events, outreach, and engagement, helping the Chamber maintain a consistent presence across multiple markets.

Why internships matter

The program supports both workforce development and organizational capacity by:

• Creating early-career pathways into professional environments
• Connecting students to business and community networks
• Supporting regional engagement where full-time staffing is limited
• Strengthening the Chamber's ability to execute programs and events

This program reflects the Chamber's role as a connector, linking education, business, and opportunity in practical, meaningful ways.